WHILE the onslaught on winter has decimated most sporting activities, North Shields Hockey club have used their free Saturdays to raise much-needed funds.

First off was the club’s festive party celebration organised by Zoe Scott and Billy Sowter. Fifty members supported the event, the night eventually raising around £200 for club coffers.

Next up was a North Sea Dip. A number of members braved the biting coast breeze and sub-zero temperatures to take the plunge and in turn raise another £250 for the club. The roll of honour included Zoe Scott, Beth Priestley, Lizzie Perry, Gemma Dixon, Adam Lough, Greg Butcher, Mick Riding, Martin Osborne, James Cooper and Joe Bell.

The club raised a further £1,300 in a bag-packing event at Morrisons.

The cash raised will ensure the North East Hockey League club can continue to run on membership fees which are among the lowest in the country.